Fostering international collaboration in implementation science and research: a concept mapping exploratory study

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Global Health Research
• Health Services Research

Background:

• International collaboration is increasingly vital for research relevance, generalizability, and impact.
• Implementation science (IS) focuses on translating clinical findings into health services.
• Effective strategies are needed to foster international collaboration within IS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key factors facilitating productive and rewarding international collaborations in implementation research.
• To explore efficient and effective methods for fostering global IS partnerships.

Main Methods:

• Concept-mapping (CM), a mixed-method approach, was used with a targeted sample.
• CM facilitated the identification of essential themes and action items for planning.
• Qualitative and quantitative data were gathered from diverse stakeholders.

Main Results:

• Eleven key dimensions for international IS collaboration were identified.
• Strategic Planning and Funding were rated highest in importance.
• Strategic Planning and Networking/Shared Identity were deemed most feasible.

Conclusions:

• Fostering international collaboration in IS can enhance research efficiency, relevance, and generalizability.
• Developing and testing strategies to improve global IS partnerships is recommended.
• Engaging both junior and experienced investigators in international collaborations is essential for advancing IS.